Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups
- Granulated sugar: 2 cups
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: 3/4 cup
- Baking soda: 1 1/2 teaspoons
- Large eggs: 2
- Buttermilk: 1 cup
- Vegetable oil: 1/2 cup
- Pure peppermint extract: 1 teaspoon
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking soda until well combined.
- Step 2: In a separate medium bowl, combine the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and 1/2 teaspoon of the peppermint extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and beat on medium speed until the batter is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Step 3: Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes.
- Step 4: Remove the cakes from the pans and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. While cooling, prepare a chocolate or buttercream frosting, incorporating the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract and optional green food coloring for mint flavor.
- Step 5: Once the cake layers are entirely cooled, place the first layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of mint frosting on top. Carefully place the second layer over the frosting and finish by covering the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
Notes
- To maintain moisture, store the finished cake in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to 3 days, or place in the refrigerator if your frosting is cream-based.
- If the cake has been chilled, let it stand at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before serving; this restores the texture of the buttermilk crumb and softens the peppermint frosting perfectly.
- Enhance the cooling mint flavor by serving each slice with a light dusting of cocoa powder or a dollop of fresh whipped cream.
- Since peppermint extract is potent, resist the urge to add more than the specified amount, as the dual addition (in the batter and the frosting) is designed to provide balanced, not overwhelming, mint flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American